The nose is strong with maple syrup, so much so that it reminds me of a Canadian; eventually, that dissipates to a more familiar corny Bourbon nose. The palate is rich and savory with plenty of oak. The additional oak notes make it thicker, chewier and more complex than the standard Maker's, but still with noticeable wheat notes lasting into a very pleasant finish.

The new Maker's is a definite step up from the standard version, adding complexity and heft, though I certainly wouldn't say it knocked my socks off.

Smells less sweet than regular Maker's, not as acrid, more rounded, cornbread background.

Palate is still quite sweet, and quite nice. Like its brother (parent?), it seems a little hot for the ABV (47% in this case). Strikes me as Maker's with less sweetness, more grip, and a dash of mild, drying spice -- basically Maker's with a little more character and dimension. Finish lingers pleasantly, bigger, and longer.

t: nice, rounded sweetness, full of corn, but not too sugary. In the middle the wood becomes very apparent with char, vanilla, and black peppercorn spice. Doesn't have much density to this and fades to cinnamon on wheat toast for the finish. This is a noticable step up from regular Maker's. [B-/C+]